Bergenia purpurascens ‘Irish Crimson’

A very desirable variant considered to have the finest winter foliage of any Bergenia. It forms rosettes of small, upright, leathery, bright green leaves with a prominent pink tinged margin and an almost white mid-rib. In winter the leaves turn an intense beetroot crimson colour which lasts through to spring. A highly attractive winter foliage plant that is best planted in swathes at the edge of a border. In spring, purple-pink flowers open from deep liver red calyces atop thick red stems.

Several plants have been sold under this name causing confusion over its origin. According to Charles Nelson, it was originally distributed by Helen Dillon, who had grown it in her garden for more than 20 years, to Beth Chatto, who sold it under the name B. 'Helen Dillon'. It has also been sold under the name B. 'Helen Dillon’s form' but both names are now considered synonyms. Nelson says that the plant is likely to have been cultivated in the Dublin area for many years as it was also grown at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin. It is said to have been introduced before 1976.

Due to its popularity and slow growth rate, it is rarely offered. Be careful, as other named varieties, such as B. 'Godfrey Owen' and B. 'Glasnevin' appear under this name. This clone is from the original plant growing at National Botanic Garden, Glasnevin.